In the days leading up to Christmas 2016 I was diagnosed with Cancer.
I ignored the ongoing symptoms of pain, fatigue, swelling, and shortness of breath, assuming it was just the repercussion of a few two many hours at work.
A swollen face, and protruding veins in my neck lead me into the emergency room. Unfortunately, the doctors at that particular hospital sent me home with an acute allergic reaction and a day off work (Sorry Nat, lol).
My next step was to assume it was my heart, as the veins in my neck were creating an immense amount of pressure around my head. I booked in to see an amazing Cardiologist, by the name of Dr. Fred Nasser who upon my arrival, laughed in my face and told me I had made my appointment with him 50 years too early. And he was correct. He made some assessments and insisted I have a CT Scan immediately without explaining why. I did the following day. And on that day I completed two CT scans and a biopsy on a lymph- node in my neck.
Another sleepless night before I met with Dr. Fred, he had me checked into the Royal North Shore hospital under his care. I didn’t leave the hospital for Christmas that year. Instead, I had another biopsy, on my bum and all my organs tested. Talking about fertility options and time constraints. All whilst waiting for answers, for results, for a reason.
Turned out the reason was an Enlarged B-cell Tumor, A type of non- Hodgkin’s lymphoma. It was about 10x7x6cm and it was creating a superior vena cava obstruction. Meaning it was restricting 80% of blood and oxygen flow to my head, basically suffocating me.
Fast forward, 4 rounds of chemo in and still fighting strong. I want to let people know that cancer does not discriminate. I want people to know that cancer doesn’t care how old or young you are, how healthy, how busy, how happy, or whatever else might be happening in your life. Anyone, anywhere, anytime.
I want people to know how little warning this disease can strike with, and how devastating it can be to your entire existence. But above all else, I want those who are facing this struggle to know that they are not alone. That people do care.
Thank you for reading my story and for helping me raise awareness against this thing called Cancer and I know that one day soon we WILL have a cure for it
Sending love, strength and prayers x